Speculations Put To Rest: ‘The Legend Continues’

As CSK clinched their fifth IPL title, captain MS Dhoni announced that he is not ready to retire just yet. Speaking in the post-match presentation, Dhoni mentioned that while it would be easier to walk away at this point, he is willing to work hard for another nine months and try to play another IPL season.

Addressing the question about his legacy, Dhoni expressed his gratitude for the immense love he has received throughout his career. He acknowledged that retiring now would be the simpler option, but he wants to challenge himself to push his body and attempt to participate in another IPL season.

Dhoni described it as a personal gift to himself, even though it won’t be easy on his body. Dhoni also shared his emotional moments during the first game at CSK, where the crowd was chanting his name, and he had to take a moment to compose himself in the dugout.

In the IPL 2023 finals, Dhoni couldn’t make a significant impact as Mohit Sharma dismissed him on the first ball, leaving the stadium in stunned silence. As Dhoni made his way back to the pavilion, tears were visible in the eyes of some fans. However, Ravindra Jadeja and Shivam Dubey ensured CSK completed the chase and achieved Dhoni’s desired victory.

Speculations about MS Dhoni’s retirement have been circulating for the past few years. He retired from international cricket in 2019 but continued to lead CSK in the IPL.

Dhoni is considered one of the most successful Indian captains, leading the team to victory in the 2007 ICC World Twenty20, the 2011 Cricket World Cup, and the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy. Under his leadership, India also won the Asia Cup in 2010 and 2016.

In the IPL, Dhoni has been instrumental in CSK’s success, leading the franchise for 14 seasons. Under his captaincy, CSK reached the finals 10 times and emerged victorious in five of those instances. With their fifth title, CSK is now on par with the Mumbai Indians (MI) who also have five IPL titles.